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full sun (6 or more hours of sun hitting the leaves per day. South-facing window, no obstructions. Under grow lights, keep them 4-8 inches away for 12-14 hours) to partial sun. A sunny position is best - avoid hot afternoon direct sun (right in the window where sun actually hits the leaves. A strong grow light 4-6 inches away can substitute) only. Needs strong light to maintain its compact, tightly packed form.Light
Soak-and-dry method strictly applied. Water only when completely dry; the pot should have good drainage. This species rots easily - when in doubt, skip the watering. Err noticeably dry rather than moist.Water
Very low. Mimics its natural habitat of arid, rocky slopes. Standard indoor air is fine; avoid humid rooms.Humidity
Prefers mild temperatures. Tolerates brief cold but should be kept above freezing. Keep in warm, dry conditions indoors in winter.Temperature
moderateDifficulty

Rattlesnake Tail

Crassula barklyi

Moderate

Crassula barklyi is one of those succulents that looks more like a prop from a set designer than a real plant - its tight, overlapping leaves wrap around short erect stems so completely that each branch resembles a small finger swathed in bandages, or the tail of a rattlesnake (take your pick of unnerving comparisons). It grows slowly to about 10 cm tall and offsets modestly at the base, making it a rewarding long-term terrarium or windowsill subject for patient growers.

Care Guide

How to grow Rattlesnake Tail

Light

full sun (6 or more

Water

Soak-and-dry method strictly applied.

Humidity

Very low.

Temperature

Prefers mild temperatures.

Soil

Well-draining, gritty mix amended with

Propagation

Division of offsets (the plant

Common Problems

Susceptible to mealybugs and fungal diseases.

Did You Know

Fun Facts

The name Crassula teres, under which this plant was widely sold and grown for years, is now considered an invalid synonym - the accepted name is Crassula barklyi, though you will still see teres on nursery labels and in older references.

Pet Safety

Toxic to pets

Not considered toxic to pets or humans. However, its close relative the Jade Plant (Crassula ovata) is listed as toxic by the ASPCA, so keep away from pets as a sensible precaution.

Sources

  1. Crassula barklyi (Rattlesnake Tail) - World of Succulents (opens in new tab)Botanical Garden
  2. Crassula barklyi N.E.Br. - Plants of the World Online (Kew Science) (opens in new tab)Botanical Garden
  3. Crassula Barklyi 'Rattlesnake Tail' (Care Guide) - Succulents Network (opens in new tab)Reference
  4. Crassula barklyi - Wikipedia (opens in new tab)Reference
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